November 2016 - MARMAM - devlists.uvic.ca

Respiratory physiology in Patagonia sea lions
by Andreas 12 Nov '16

12 Nov '16

Dear MARMAM colleagues, We are pleased to announce a paper on respiratory function in Patagonia sea lions: Fahlman, A., Madigan, J. (2016), Respiratory function in voluntary participating Patagonia sea lions in sternal recumbency. Frontiers Physiology doi: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00528 We measured esophageal pressures (n=4), respiratory flow rates (n=5), and expired O2 and CO2 (n=4) in five adult Patagonia sea lions (Otaria flavescens, body mass range 94.3-286.0 kg) during voluntary breaths while laying down. The data were used to estimate the dynamic specific lung compliance (sCL, cmH2O-1), the O2 consumption rate (VO2) and CO2 production rates (VCO2) during rest. Our results indicate that the resting tidal volume in Patagonia sea lions is approximately 47-73% of the estimated total lung capacity. The esophageal pressures indicated that expiration is passive during voluntary breaths. The average sCL of dolphins was 0.41±0.11 cmH2O−1, which is similar to those measured in anesthetized sea lions and awake cetaceans, and significantly higher as compared with humans (0.08 cmH2O−1). The average estimated and using breath-by-breath respirometry were 1.023 ± 0.327 L O2 min-1 (range: 0.695-1.514 L O2 min−1) and 0.777 ± 0.318 L CO2 min-1, (range: 0.510-1.235 L CO2 min-1), respectively, which is similar to previously published metabolic measurements from California and Steller sea lions using conventional flow-through respirometry. Our data provide end-tidal gas composition and provide novel data for respiratory physiology in pinnpeds, which may be important for clinical medicine and conservation efforts. The paper is available at: http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fphys.2016.00528 Sincerely, Andreas Fahlman

1 0

New publication on "Examining the metabolic cost of otariid foraging under varying conditions"
by Tori Norrell 11 Nov '16

11 Nov '16

We are pleased to inform you that the following paper has been published: Neises, V., Zeligs, J., Harris, B., and Cornick, L. (2017) Examining the metabolic cost of otariid foraging under varying conditions. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. doi: 10.1016/j.jembe.2016.11.001 The paper is published in an open access journal and can be downloaded here: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022098116302210 <http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022098116302210> ABSTRACT In order to understand the effects of changing prey availability on dive behavior and energetic costs, behavior and metabolism must be measured simultaneously. Video dive analysis and open-flow respirometry was used to assess changes in dive behavior and energetics of two captive trained California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) in response to high and low prey densities and increased cost of swimming. Differences in dive duration, foraging duration, dive efficiency and foraging efficiency were examined between high and low prey encounter rates, and between standard and cost-increased dives. Changes in foraging metabolic rate (FVO2) and foraging carbon dioxide elimination (FVCO2) were also assessed across all four conditions. Both animals had longer dive durations, greater dive efficiency and lower FVO2 and FVCO2 levels at high prey encounter rates. Foraging metabolic rate and FVCO2 showed a slight increasing trend in cost-increased bouts for both animals, and surface interval durations were shorter. The results suggest that at high prey encounter rates animals minimize their metabolic rate to extend dive duration. These results also suggest that although FVCO2 decreases under high prey encounter rates, increasing the cost of transport keeps VCO2 levels elevated and increases the animal’s oxygen debt. The authors hypothesize that as the level of work increases, the ability of the body to sequester CO2 into bicarbonate diminishes due to an inability of the proton buffering process within the blood and muscles to keep pace with increasing CO2 production. Therefore, CO2 may be a more sensitive physiological marker than O2 when examining the metabolic cost of foraging. On behalf of all authors, Victoria Neises

1 0

Announcement of 2017 internships on bottlenose dolphin monitoring project in Cardigan Bay, UK, with Sea Watch Foundation
by Kathy James 11 Nov '16

11 Nov '16

Dear all, We are pleased to announce that we are now taking applications for residential internships with us in 2017! Interns are invited to assist the Sea Watch Foundation with the running of the "Cardigan Bay Monitoring Project". The project is based in New Quay, West Wales, and supports the conservation management of the bottlenose dolphin, harbour porpoise and grey seal populations of Cardigan Bay, monitoring their abundance, distribution, reproductive success and population structure using a combination of vessel-based, land-based and acoustic surveys. Sea Watch has been monitoring these populations on behalf of the Welsh government (through funding provided by Natural Resources Wales) for over a decade. Cardigan Bay contains Britain's largest coastal population of bottlenose dolphins, for which two special areas of conservation have been established under the EU Habitats Directive. There are three roles available; Research Assistant, Education and Outreach Assistant and Research Intern. To find out more about each role and to apply, please visit our webpage <http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/internships/> . The application deadline is 8th Jan for the Research Assistant role and 15th Jan for the other roles. We look forward to hearing from you! Kathy James Sightings Officer Sea Watch Foundation Paragon House Wellington Place New Quay Ceredigion SA45 9NR Tel: 01545 561227 (Tues, Weds, Thurs) 01970 623906 (Mon & Fri only) <http://www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk/> www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk <https://www.facebook.com/seawatchfoundation/C:/Users/Sea%20Watch%20Foundati on/Documents/ADMIN%20MISC> facebook <https://twitter.com/SeaWatchersUK> twitter

1 0

Research Assistant required for April and May for the Mandurah Dolphin Research Project in Western Australia
by Krista Nicholson 11 Nov '16

11 Nov '16

Research Assistants required for April and May for the Mandurah Dolphin Research Project in Western Australia (WA) Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit (MUCRU<http://mucru.org/>) is commencing a new research project aimed at gaining a solid understanding of the bottlenose dolphins using the Peel-Harvey Estuary (part of Ramsar Wetlands) and adjacent coastal waters. The overall aim of the project is to conduct a population assessment. In short this involves characterizing population size and structure, habitat use and genetic connectivity of dolphins using the estuarine and coastal areas. I am seeking a dedicated research assistant (volunteer) to help out with boat based data collection and data processing for the months of April and May. Data collection (photo-identification and biopsy sampling) will be conducted inland waters to up to 12nm offshore. Data collection is weather dependent and research assistants are expected to be available full time during day light hours throughout the time they commit to the project. You can expect long days on the boat (~6.5m vessel) on consecutive days followed by processing data in the office. The main duties for research assistants are: Data collection: spotting dolphins, driving the boat, taking photographs for photo-identification, recording data Data processing: downloading data, entering data, matching fins, mapping sightings General: Maintaining the boat and car, clean equipment, community engagement You can expect to learn, or improve your practical skills (taking photo-ID shots, driving a trailer, launching a boat, general boat handling etc.), be exposed to small cetacean biopsy sampling methods and become efficient in processing photo-ID data. And to top it off you will have the opportunity to visit MUCRU and be exposed to great minds involved in various marine mammal research projects! There are no pre-requisites for the position; however, assistants need to not be scared of hard work, long hours and getting their hands dirty. Assistants need to be independent individuals who have a strong desire to be part of a team and enjoy people and ‘coffee moments’. Preferred prior skills include boat handling, first aid, and experience in photo-ID as well as enrolment in a related field of study or a strong desire to pursue a related career. This is an unpaid position and assistants need to organise their own travel to and from Mandurah, which is approximately 1 hr south of Perth in WA. The office space will be in a research house where assistants are welcome to, and preferred to, rent a room for a cost of 150 AUD/week (inclusive of internet and bills). And for your free time Mandurah has everything you can think of a holiday town to offer (shops, cafes, bars, cinema, nature, hikes, camping, surfing, diving, snorkelling, paddle boarding, kayaking, wildlife spotting, skydiving etc.) and Perth is only an hour away. To apply for this position please send me a cover sheet specifying why you would like to assist in this project, the time you are applying for, your CV and names and contact details of two references to k.nicholson(a)murdoch.edu.au<mailto:k.nicholson@murdoch.edu.au> . Looking forward to hearing from you! All the best, Krista Nicholson PhD Candidate Murdoch University Cetacean Research Unit Perth, Western Australia

1 1

Potential PhD Studentship Opportunity: Grey seal behaviour.
by TWISS, SEAN D. 10 Nov '16

10 Nov '16

Project Title: Patterns of individual variation in post-weaning behaviour in wild grey seals The application deadline is 20th January 2017 Supervisory team: Dr. Sean D. Twiss<https://www.dur.ac.uk/biosciences/about/schoolstaff/academicstaff/?id=1132>, Durham University Dr. Patrick Pomeroy<http://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/contact/staffProfile.aspx?sunID=pp6>, University of St. Andrews Dr Richard<http://www.ncl.ac.uk/biology/staff/profile/richardbevan.html#background> Bevan, Newcastle University Dr Kimberley<http://www.abertay.ac.uk/staff/k_bennett_f642c.html> Bennett, Abertay University Dr Amanda Bishop<http://www.alaskasealife.org/meet_our_scientists/134>, Alaska SeaLife Center Project description: Juvenile survival is a major driver of population dynamics in many mammals, including seals1. While factors determining breeding site selection and use in adult pinnipeds are well studied2-4, neonate utilisation of these habitats is less well understood, despite the importance of understanding the ontogeny of early behaviour. There is ongoing debate and research into physiological mechanisms that may determine the post weaning fast (PWF) duration in grey seals (Halichoerus grypus)5,6. However, there remains a dearth of behavioural data on weaned pups; how they spend their time on their natal colony, how much they explore and move around the colony and variation in departure time relative to weaning and weaning conditions. Recent studies show consistent individual differences (‘personalities’) in grey seal mothers7, but it remains unknown whether these behavioural profiles are expressed in weaned pups. It is possible that different behavioural types may show different tendencies for post weaning behaviour and fast duration. In addition, a key parameter for the current grey seal population model based on pup production is ‘time to leave’ (TTL); the time a pup is ashore from birth to its departure from the breeding colony8. TTL comprises lactation duration (LD) and PWF. Factors influencing LD are largely maternal, and these likely also influence PWF, but additional site specific factors may also influence PWF. Estimates of PWF from the UK are few and dated from the 1980’s and 1990’s9-11. Population models suggest PWF is highly variable within and between UK regions and the TTL used in pup production models may be an underestimate8. Local habitat and weather conditions, along with individual behavioural type and activity may contribute to PWF variation, yet detailed analysis of drivers of weaned pup behaviour is limited. This project aims to contribute to this gap in knowledge by investigating intrinsic and extrinsic factors that determine individual differences in on colony behaviour and PWF duration. Significance: This study will provide insights into the basic patterns of on-colony behaviour, the ontogeny of behaviour in naïve juvenile grey seals, and the diversity of behavioural profiles and their adaptability to changing conditions. Specifically, variation in PWF and the drivers for departure from the colony are fundamental parameters in grey seal population models. Information from this study will directly inform these models which are fundamental to SMRU’s work and input to governmental advice via SCOS8. Methodology: Fieldwork will encompass 3 successive autumnal breeding seasons at the Isle of May (Scotland) colony. This study will focus on individual variation in post weaning behaviour, fast duration and mass loss. Detailed observations of weaned pups will be achieved through a combination of standard behavioural observations, and use of telemetry devices (e.g. accelerometery & GPS), to examine variation in activity and movement patterns on colony and assess the role of extrinsic factors on dispersal/movement and departure (e.g. topography, weather, adult aggression) whilst controlling for intrinsic drivers (weaning mass and rates of post weaning mass loss, behavioural type). The study will be integrated with ongoing studies of adult female behaviour and energetics on the breeding colony, to provide background data on the maternal/nursing environment of the weaned pups and maternal behavioural type. A subset of weaned pups will be exposed to simple behavioural tests to examine variation in behavioural types (exploratoriness, inquisitiveness, boldness etc.). The longitudinal study design will allow the student to examine inter-cohort differences (e.g. driven by annual weather differences) and intra-cohort variation in weaner behaviour. References & Further Reading: 1. Hall et al. 2001. J. Anim. Ecol. 70: 138-149.2. Pomeroy et al. 1994. J Zool Lond 233: 429-447. 3. Twiss et al. 2000. Anim Behav. 59: 327-338. 4. Twiss et al. 2001. Ecography, 24: 257-266. 5. Bennett et al. 2013.J. Exp. Biol. 216: 984-991. 6. Noren et al. 2008. Phys. & Biochem. Zool. 81: 269–277. 7. Twiss et al. 2012. PLoS ONE 7(11): e49598. 8. Russell et al. 2015. SCOS Briefing Paper SCOS BP-15/03. 9. Wyile 1988. PhD Thesis, Univ. Cambridge. 10. Pomeroy et al. 1999. J. Anim. Ecol. 68: 235–253. 11. Bennett et al 2010 Physiol Biochem Zool 83: 911-923. Training & Skills: The student will gain extensive inter-disciplinary training in field behavioural observation, application of biotelemetry devices, organisation of fieldwork logistics and safety. The student will gain training in analytical techniques including behavioural analysis and integration of movement data within a GIS. Beyond these, the student will develop critical thinking, writing, and teamwork skills as part of dynamic, interdisciplinary, and supportive research groups. Through developing collaborations with co-supervisors, there may be further opportunity to develop understanding of conservation and population management strategies of marine mammals through exposure to SMRU’s work. Funding and how to apply This project is in competition with others for funding. Potential funding is from the IAPETUS scheme, which is the North East of England’s and Scotland’s multidisciplinary Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) for the environmental sciences, which is funded and accredited by NERC (The UK’s Natural Environment Research Council). Success will therefore depend on the quality of applications received, relative to those for competing projects. Notes on candidate eligibility: For a student to be eligible to be considered and receive an IAPETUS studentship they must meet NERC’s student eligibility criteria, which are detailed at; http://www.iapetus.ac.uk/aboutstudentships/ These criteria require all students to be UK or EU domiciled, and only allows for EU students to receive a full maintenance grant if they have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years prior to the commencement of their studentship. Candidate requirements: Potential candidates are advised that to be considered for the IAPETUS studentship, the minimum requirements include an excellent undergraduate degree with either postgraduate or work experience in a relevant discipline. In addition evidence of existing, or pending, scientific publication(s) in peer reviewed journals is beneficial. Potential candidates should be able to demonstrate the ability to conduct prolonged and isolated fieldwork in harsh conditions, while remaining dedicated and enthusiastic. Ability to work independently and as part of a team is essential. In addition, candidates will require strong analytical skills, including experience of modern ecological and statistical modelling techniques. Experience with R and analysis of telemetry data is advantageous, but not essential. A UK driving licence (or equivalent) is also desirable, but not essential. Candidates must have fulfilled the University’s requirements regarding English language ability and must not require a pre-sessional course as a condition of their place. See: https://www.dur.ac.uk/learningandteaching.handbook/1/3/3/ The application deadline is 20th January 2017. Students are encouraged to contact Dr. Twiss (s.d.twiss(a)durham.ac.uk<mailto:s.d.twiss@durham.ac.uk>) in advance for consideration, with a CV and covering letter, detailing your reasons for applying for the project. Only the best applicants will be asked to submit a full application to the University. END _________________________________ Dr. Sean Twiss, Senior Lecturer in Behavioural Ecology and Animal Behaviour, Department of Biosciences, South Road, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK. E-mail: s.d.twiss(a)durham.ac.uk Web-site: https://www.dur.ac.uk/biosciences/about/schoolstaff/academicstaff/?id=1132 Blog: http://sealbehaviour.wordpress.com/ Behaviour, Ecology and Evolution Research (BEER) Centre: www.dur.ac.uk/beer-centre<http://www.dur.ac.uk/beer-centre> Tel: +44 (0)191 334 1350 (office) Tel: +44 (0)191 334 1247 (lab) Fax: +44 (0)191 334 1201 _________________________________

1 0

New publication : Seasonal and Diel Vocalization Patterns of Antarctic Blue Whale in the Southern Indian Ocean
by Emmanuelle Leroy 10 Nov '16

10 Nov '16

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce the publication of a new paper in Plos One entitled : " Seasonal and Diel Vocalization Patterns of Antarctic Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus intermedia) in the Southern Indian Ocean: A Multi-Year and Multi-Site Study" Abstract: Passive acoustic monitoring is an efficient way to provide insights on the ecology of large whales. This approach allows for long-term and species-specific monitoring over large areas. In this study, we examined six years (2010 to 2015) of continuous acoustic recordings at up to seven different locations in the Central and Southern Indian Basin to assess the peak periods of presence, seasonality and migration movements of Antarctic blue whales (/Balaenoptera musculus intermedia/). An automated method is used to detect the Antarctic blue whale stereotyped call, known as Z-call. Detection results are analyzed in terms of distribution, seasonal presence and diel pattern of emission at each site. Z-calls are detected year-round at each site, except for one located in the equatorial Indian Ocean, and display highly seasonal distribution. This seasonality is stable across years for every site, but varies between sites. Z-calls are mainly detected during autumn and spring at the subantarctic locations, suggesting that these sites are on the Antarctic blue whale migration routes, and mostly during winter at the subtropical sites. In addition to these seasonal trends, there is a significant diel pattern in Z-call emission, with more Z-calls in daytime than in nighttime. This diel pattern may be related to the blue whale feeding ecology. This article is available at : http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0163587 Kind regards, Emmanuelle Leroy PhD Student University of Brest Institut Universitaire Européen de la Mer (IUEM) Laboratoire Géosciences Océan (LGO) Place Nicolas Copernic - 29280 Plouzané e-mail : emmanuelle.leroy(a)univ-brest.fr --- L'absence de virus dans ce courrier électronique a été vérifiée par le logiciel antivirus Avast. https://www.avast.com/antivirus

1 0

new publication on narwhal echolocation
by Jens Koblitz 10 Nov '16

10 Nov '16

Dear colleagues, my co-authors and I are pleased to announce the publication of our work on the directionality and scanning of narwhals in PLoS ONE: Koblitz JC, Stilz P, Rasmussen MH, Laidre KL (2016) Highly Directional Sonar Beam of Narwhals (/Monodon monoceros/) Measured with a Vertical 16 Hydrophone Array PLoS ONE 11(11): e0162069. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0162069 The paper is available as OPEN ACCESS here: http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0162069 Abstract: Recordings of narwhal (/Monodon monoceros/) echolocation signals were made using a linear 16 hydrophone array in the pack ice of Baffin Bay, West Greenland in 2013 at eleven sites. An average -3 dB beam width of 5.0° makes the narwhal click the most directional biosonar signal reported for any species to date. The beam shows a dorsal-ventral asymmetry with a narrower beam above the beam axis. This may be an evolutionary advantage for toothed whales to reduce echoes from the water surface or sea ice surface. Source level measurements show narwhal click intensities of up to 222 dB pp re 1 μPa, with a mean apparent source level of 215 dB pp re 1 μPa. During ascents and descents the narwhals perform scanning in the vertical plane with their sonar beam. This study provides valuable information for reference sonar parameters of narwhals and for the use of acoustic monitoring in the Arctic. Cheers, Jens -- Dr. Jens C. Koblitz BioAcousticsNetwork Eichenallee 32 a 41469 Neuss Germany Office: +41 (0) 56 55 876 20 Cell: +49 (0) 1512-2236452

1 0

MARINE MAMMAL VOLUNTEER POSITIONS IN THE SOUTH ADRIATIC IS AVAILABLE NOW
by aylin akkaya 10 Nov '16

10 Nov '16

Marine Mammals Research Association and National History of Montenegro is currently seeking for volunteers in Montenegro, starting from December 2016. Montenegro Dolphin Project is the first year round study and aim to address the questions on cetacean abundance, distribution and behaviour through boat and land surveys. The project provides an excellent opportunity for post-grads, students and individuals interested in getting more experience and knowledge in the field of marine mammal research. VOLUNTEERS are primarily responsible for behavioural data collection, theodolite operation, photographing cetacean individuals and cataloging dolphin pictures, data entry. Training will be provided beforehand. In addition, there will be ArcGIS courses running which will be free for volunteers during their stay. The land surveys will be min of twice a week and boat surveys will be once a week, depending on the weather. There will be an opportunity to undertake a personal research project and write a publication supervised by the project director. REQUIREMENTS Applicant are expected to be graduates or students of a BSc degree in biology, marine biology or zoology and able to demonstrate previous experience in the field of research and conservation. Knowledge on marine mammal species is advantage. Practical experience of photo-identification (both photography and matching) and theodolite operation is desirable. The applicant must be fluent in English, proficient with database and word processing software and be willing to learn new software applications. Volunteers must be self-motivated, with the drive and determination to work independently and responsibly, and with a true interest in marine conservation. The minimum duration of the placements is normally 2 complete months. We may make exceptions for potential participants to apply for a shorter placement. PROJECT FEE This position is unpaid and requires a contribution fee of 550 euro per month, which covers the accommodation, equipment, training and working expenses for the participants. Participants should cover their own travel expenses to Montenegro where all projects start/end. To follow our activities online please follow us in facebook; https://www.facebook.com/DMAD-Marine-Mammals-Research-Association-157422324… TO APPLY Send CV and cover letter by e-mail to akkayaaylinn(a)gmail.comDr. Aylin Akkaya BaşProject DirectorDeniz Memelileri Araştırma Derneği (DMAD)Marine Mammals Research Association+90 5337739867info@dmad.org.trthttp://www.dmad.org.tr/

1 0

Scientist Marine Mammal and Noise Research
by Frank Thomsen 09 Nov '16

09 Nov '16

Scientist - Marine Mammal and Noise Research Job description We are looking for a scientist to complement our marine mammal and underwater noise team in Gdynia, Poland, starting ASAP. The job will involve contribution to research and consultancy projects on the impacts of marine activities (renewables, oil and gas, dredging, shipping and others) on marine mammals and fish. The work involves the analysis of ambient noise, the biological assessment of sound impacts based on internationally accepted assessment criteria and compilation of chapters on the abundance and distribution of marine mammals in project areas. Your workplace will be at our Gdynia office, located in Pomeranian Science and Technology Park, Poland. Desired skills and experience Expected qualifications: · University degree (MSc or similar) · EIA experience · Experience in marine mammal science · Proficiency in both written and spoken English · Self-motivation, team spirit, professionalism Additional assets · Experience in fish science desirable · Experience in underwater sound impact research · Computational skills with Matlab · Modelling experience You can apply online via Rsearchgate here: https://www.researchgate.net/job/878916_Scientist-Marine_Research Alternatively, please send your application to: dhipolska(a)dhigroup.com<mailto:dhipolska@dhigroup.com> Best regards, Frank Thomsen Ph.D. Senior Scientist , Group Executive - Marine Regulators and Authorities DHI Group Sales [DHI logo] DHI Agern Allé 5 DK-2970 Hørsholm Denmark Tel: +45 4516 9200 Direct: +45 4516 9446 Mobile: +45 29404355 frth(a)dhigroup.com<mailto:frth@dhigroup.com> www.dhigroup.com<http://www.dhigroup.com> The expert in WATER ENVIRONMENTS This message contains information which may be confidential and privileged. Unless you are the intended recipient (or authorised to receive this message for the intended recipient), you may not use, copy, disseminate or disclose any information contained in it thereof. If you have received this communication in error, please advise the sender appropriately by reply e-mail, and then delete it. Thank you very much.

1 0

New publication; Hooded seal (Cystophora cristata) pups ingest snow and seawater during their post-weaning fast
by Erling Sverre Nordøy 09 Nov '16

09 Nov '16

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce a new publication on marine mammal water balance ‘Hooded seal (Cystophora cristata) pups ingest snow and seawater during their post-weaning fast’ in ‘Journal of Comparative Physiology B’ Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the importance of exogenous water intake (snow/seawater) in hooded seal (Cystophora cristata) pups during their post-weaning fast. In this study, five hooded seal pups had ad lib access to snow and seawater for the first 12 and last 21 days of their post-weaning fast, respectively. Total body water and water flux were determined during both exposure periods by use of the tritiated water method. Blood samples were collected to monitor changes in hematocrit, plasma urea and plasma osmolality. Body mass loss was on average 0.36 kg day−1. Average total body water changed from 15.7 to 11.4 L, while total water influx changed from 15 to 18 mL day−1 kg−1 during snow and seawater exposure, respectively. Of this influx an average of 35% can be attributed to metabolic water, while approximately 8% was due to respiratory water influx. Interestingly, 56 and 58% of the total water influx was due to snow and seawater ingestion, respectively, amounting to 8 mL day−1 kg−1 snow (counted as liquid water) and 10 mL day−1 kg−1 seawater. Based on the results of the plasma parameters it is concluded that fasting hooded seal pups maintain water balance and homeostasis when access to snow or seawater is permitted. It is further concluded that snow and seawater intake, in addition to metabolic and respiratory water, is important for maintenance of water balance and excretion of urea during the post-weaning fast of hooded seal pups. The article is online available as open access at: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00360-016-1048-3 Kind regards, Pauke Schots, MSc UiT The Arctic University of Norway Department of Arctic and Marine Biology Arctic Animal Physiology Research Group Postbox 6050 Langnes 9037 Tromso, Norway e-mail: pauke.schots(a)gmail.com<mailto:pauke.schots@gmail.com>

1 0